Fun Things to Do and See for Kids
Long Beach, Washington, located on the Pacific Coast of the state, is a family-friendly destination perfect for creating lasting memories with kids. Known for its sandy beaches, fun attractions, and outdoor activities, Long Beach offers plenty of excitement for children of all ages. Here’s a detailed guide to fun things to do and see for kids in Long Beach.
Explore Long Beach Peninsula
Long Beach boasts a 28-mile stretch of sandy beach that’s perfect for endless fun. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles, flying kites, collecting seashells, and simply playing by the ocean. The beach is also a great place to ride bikes or stroll along the shore, with the waves providing a calming backdrop.
The Long Beach Boardwalk is a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, offering scenic views of the ocean and providing access to many of the town’s attractions. It’s also stroller-friendly, making it an ideal activity for families with younger children.
World Kite Museum and Hall of Fame
Long Beach is often referred to as the “Kite Capital of the World,” and the World Kite Museum is a must-see for families. The museum is filled with colorful kites from around the world and provides an engaging and educational experience for kids who can learn about the history of kite-flying and the science behind these airborne creations.
Kids can participate in hands-on activities such as making their own kites and flying them on the beach afterward. Each August, the town hosts the International Kite Festival, where the skies are filled with vibrant kites of all shapes and sizes, offering an unforgettable spectacle for kids and adults alike. Visit the website https://www.worldkitemuseum.com
Marsh’s Free Museum
This quirky museum is one of the most unique stops in Long Beach. Known for its eclectic and odd collection of antiques, seashells, and taxidermy animals, Marsh’s Free Museum is also home to the famous “Jake the Alligator Man,” a curious creature that’s part alligator, part man.
Though some of the oddities may seem unusual, kids tend to love the museum’s variety of weird and wonderful artifacts. In addition to its strange exhibits, the museum also has an extensive gift shop with toys, seashells, and souvenirs, making it a fun spot for families to explore together. Visit the website https://www.marshsfreemuseum.com
Go Karts and Mini Golf
Located in downtown Long Beach, Go Karts and mini-golf offer exciting activities for kids who enjoy a bit of adventure. The go-kart track is a hit with older children, who can race around the course and experience the thrill of speed in a safe environment. There are double-seated karts available for younger kids to ride with a parent, ensuring the whole family can join in on the fun.
Next to the go-kart track is a classic mini-golf course. Kids can test their putting skills in a colorful, themed environment full of fun obstacles and creative challenges. Mini-golf is always a favorite family activity, providing entertainment and a bit of friendly competition.
Discovery Trail
The Discovery Trail is an 8.5-mile paved path that runs from Ilwaco to the north end of Long Beach, winding through dunes, forests, and scenic coastal landscapes. It’s perfect for a family bike ride or a walk, offering plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and beautiful ocean views. Kids will love spotting animals like deer, rabbits, and birds along the way.
Along the trail, families can stop at the Clark’s Tree, a historical site where Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition carved their initials into a tree. Kids who are history buffs or curious about the great outdoors will enjoy learning about this piece of American history.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
For a magical experience, take the kids horseback riding on the beach. Long Beach offers horseback riding tours for children and adults, providing an exciting way to experience the stunning coastline. Kids will enjoy riding gentle horses and feeling the breeze as they trot along the sandy shore.
Several companies in Long Beach offer guided tours, including options for beginners and children. It’s an adventure that will leave a lasting impression and offers a unique perspective of the area.
Cranberry Museum and Bog Tours
Long Beach is famous for its cranberry farms, and a visit to the Cranberry Museum is an excellent opportunity for kids to learn about this delicious fruit. The museum offers educational exhibits on the history of cranberry farming, as well as fun facts about how cranberries are grown and harvested.
Kids will especially enjoy the bog tours, where they can walk around the cranberry fields and see firsthand how the berries are cultivated. The museum’s gift shop offers cranberry-themed souvenirs, snacks, and even cranberry-flavored ice cream for a sweet treat after the tour.
North Head Lighthouse
Just a short drive from Long Beach, the North Head Lighthouse offers a glimpse into Washington’s maritime history. This historic lighthouse stands on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and kids will enjoy climbing to the top for stunning panoramic views of the coast.
The nearby trails around Cape Disappointment State Park offer short hikes that are suitable for children, leading to scenic overlooks and opportunities to spot sea life. Don’t forget to bring a camera—the view from the lighthouse is breathtaking, and kids will love learning about the role the lighthouse played in guiding ships safely through the area.
Fishing and Crabbing
For families who enjoy fishing, Long Beach offers great opportunities for crabbing, clamming, and fishing. Kids can have fun digging for razor clams or crabbing off the piers at nearby Ilwaco or Cape Disappointment State Park. With some guidance, children can learn how to use a fishing net, bait crab pots, and enjoy a day out on the water.
Local guides are available to provide fishing tours for families, ensuring everyone has the chance to catch some local fish and enjoy an exciting day outdoors. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the joys of fishing while experiencing the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Cape Disappointment State Park
While the name might sound misleading, Cape Disappointment State Park is anything but a letdown. The park offers a wide variety of activities for families, including hiking trails, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. Kids can explore the sandy beaches, play in the waves, and discover the tidal pools filled with sea creatures like starfish, crabs, and sea anemones.
For an educational experience, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center within the park offers interactive exhibits about the famous expedition’s journey to the Pacific Ocean. The center also features a film about their travels, providing a great history lesson in an engaging and fun way.
Visit Local Festivals
Throughout the year, Long Beach hosts several festivals that are perfect for kids and families. The annual SandSations Sandcastle Festival is a highlight, where expert sand sculptors create impressive works of art from beach sand. Kids can try their hand at building their own sandcastles or simply marvel at the creations.
Another popular event is the Rod Run to the End of the World, where classic cars take center stage. Kids who are fans of cars will love seeing vintage vehicles on display and learning about car history.
Long Beach, Washington, is full of fun, engaging, and educational activities for kids. From exploring the sandy shores and flying kites to visiting quirky museums, riding horses, and enjoying outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see and do. Whether your family prefers a day filled with history, nature, or thrills, Long Beach has something for every kid to enjoy.
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